While the Boston Red Sox’s starting lineup appears mostly set, the club also has the ability to be flexible based on its roster construction. The Red Sox have a host of versatile players, meaning Boston is well-equipped to overcome potential injuries and remain fresh throughout the rigors of a 162-game grind.

“I think everyone just wants, and I speak hopefully for everyone, is that we want to turn the page on ’14 and hopefully ’15’s a little better,” Red Sox outfielder Daniel Nava said Saturday at JetBlue Park. “So we’re trying to go in the right direction as a team. Whatever configuration that makes me or someone else, it’s about the wins, not the playing time.”

The Red Sox definitely are positioned to eclipse their win total from 2014 (71), with talent, hunger and overall standing relative to the other teams in the American League East being major points of optimism. Roster flexibility could be of the utmost importance, though, as it safeguards against unforeseen occurrences that otherwise might prove detrimental. It’s a luxury the Red Sox didn’t have in 2014, when they relied heavily on young players, much to their demise, and suffered injury related troubles.

“I think it’s important and I hope we have that,” Cherington recently said of constructing a deep and versatile roster as general manager of the Red Sox. “Again, we’ve got to get into the season and see if indeed we have it and if it’s working. But we hope we have it.”

For a snapshot of Boston’s versatility, consider some of the questions the Red Sox face this spring. Many contain footnotes that speak to the team’s enviable roster composition.

– How will Hanley Ramirez adapt to the outfield?
Ramirez has been primarily a shortstop throughout his career, and he also has experience at third base. While Ramirez figures to be Boston’s starting left fielder, it’s at least plausible he could end up back in the infield if Xander Bogaerts and/or Pablo Sandoval goes down at any point.

– How will the Red Sox’s outfield look?
Ramirez and Shane Victorino are expected to man the corner outfield spots, with Mookie Betts and Rusney Castillo splitting time in center field. That fact only scratches the surface of the situation.

Betts, like Ramirez, has infield experience. The Red Sox are grooming him as an outfielder due to Dustin Pedroia’s presence at second base, but Boston saw last August that it can safely transition Betts back to his natural position if the need arises.

Allen Craig, Daniel Nava and Jackie Bradley Jr. also are part of the outfield conversation. Craig and Nava both can play first base in addition to the corner outfield spots, so whichever one remains on the big league roster likely will double as Mike Napoli’s backup.

“We have a lot of guys who are very versatile,” Nava said. “Even Hanley, shortstop, third base. Brock (Holt). I could go down the list. Almost every single outfielder we have has played infield at one point, except for Jackie, and Jackie could probably play the infield.”

– How will the Red Sox deploy super utility man Brock Holt?
You know the deal. Holt played every position except pitcher and catcher last season. The Red Sox, in theory, could use him however they please. That’s a nice little asset to have.

“I don’t think I’m really looking at a battle at all,” Holt said. “I think everybody’s just trying to go out there and get their work done. Hopefully everything takes care of itself.

“We’ve got a lot of good players in this locker room right now. Right now, we’re in a good spot. The more good players you have, the better.”

– Will Xander Bogaerts take the next step in his second full season?
Bogaerts’ rollercoaster 2014 can, in some ways, be pinned on him bouncing back and forth between shortstop and third base. The Red Sox clearly would like to eliminate that aspect of his workload this season, but his experience at both positions is notable should Boston find itself in a bind.

– Which farmhands will make the jump?
There inevitably will be round trips on I-95. Consider a few possibilities from a position player standpoint: Garin Cecchini, Jemile Weeks, Jeff Bianchi, Blake Swihart — all much different cases, obviously.

Cecchini added a trick last season by learning the outfield.

Weeks and Bianchi — the next men up if something happens to Holt — have major league experience in the infield and outfield.

The Red Sox have no plans to try Swihart at another position yet, but the 22-year-old catcher is athletic enough that he probably could handle a move without much pushback. Funny things can happen. Look at Betts’ position change and rapid minor league ascent last season as proof.

Really, all of this just boils down to options. And Farrell has way more now than he did in 2014.

“There’s two sort of elements to that, and we’re not there yet,” Cherington said of his roster flexibility. “But one is certainly just trying to give the manager as many options as possible on any particular day to make sure we have a chance to have good matchups and a deep lineup. The other is just another piece of dealing with a long season.

“I think keeping players closer to their optimum level from Opening Day to hopefully the end of October is harder and harder. Having depth and having flexibility hopefully is one piece of trying to help with that.”

Admittedly, the Red Sox might not return to contention based solely on their roster flexibility. But if they falter in 2015, offensive depth shouldn’t be the biggest pain point based on how the team is assembled.

“I think versatility’s definitely one of the new names of the game for baseball,” Nava said.

The Red Sox’s exhibition schedule kicks off Tuesday with a doubleheader against Boston College and Northeastern at JetBlue Park. Clay Buchholz, Rick Porcello and Wade Miley all are scheduled to pitch in the twin bill.

The team didn’t slack off Monday, though. The Sox remained hard at work in preparation for the 2015 season. Some encouraging developments also took place.

Let’s run down some notes from the park.

— You think Dustin Pedroia is ready?

MLB Network's Top 100 is on in the #RedSox clubhouse. Pedroia looks up, sees he's No. 52 and declares, "I'll be in the top 10 next year."

Uehara, who admitted earlier in camp he dealt with a physical issue last season, has no restrictions this spring, according to manager John Farrell. The 39-year-old even will see game action earlier than usual.

“The ball was coming out his hand well,” Farrell said of Uehara’s live BP. “The same life and action to his pitches were there. We pitched him a lot the last couple of years, but he looks fresh and ready to go. There were a number of (splitters) that had consistent action to them.”

— Farrell also is impressed by what he’s seen from fellow left-hander Eduardo Rodriguez.

“Very good,” Farrell said. “A left-hander that everyone can see the type of stuff he has. But what’s been even more of a positive is you get an understanding of the aptitude, the intelligence that’s there, his ability to communicate and express things he’s dealing with on the mound while making a subtle adjustment. He’s a bright looking young prospect.”

— Buchholz, Porcello and Miley practiced bunting. There’s been no indication yet as to how the Red Sox’s rotation will line up, but it’s plausible that those three could start the opening series in Philadelphia.

— David Ortiz worked out at first base. He’ll be tasked with playing the position earlier than usual this season, as the Red Sox open the year with three games in Philadelphia against the Phillies.

Farrell said he expects Ortiz to see game action at first base this spring, likely toward the end of camp.

— Asked if the Red Sox are regaining their “mojo” after a disappointing 2014, Ortiz suggested things are moving in the right direction.

“We’re working on that. We’re working on it,” Ortiz said. “We have a lot of new guys. Guys when they come to a new ballclub, sometimes it takes them a minute to regroup. But when they see how Pedey (is) and how I am and how most of the guys that have been here for a while (are), how to go about their business, I guess that gives them more confidence and gets them more comfortable, so they insert themselves into the group faster.”

— Count Farrell among those who think sliding into first base is a bad idea.

“I’m not a fan,” Farrell said. “Now, there’s going to be plays that a guy might have to slide, hopefully feet-first, to avoid a collision of some sort. But I don’t know that it’s been proven it’s any faster.

“A head-first slide, you run the risk of any kind of finger or hand or wrist injury. And typically it’s a late decision to dive. Those late decisions at times can put a player in an awkward position.”

— Everyone could be available as the Red Sox begin their spring training slate Tuesday. The only question mark is outfielder Bryce Brentz, who has been battling right knee inflammation.

Brentz, who has been day to day, participated in normal cuts and relays Monday without any issues. The Red Sox will check with him Tuesday morning to make sure he’s a full-go, according to Farrell.

Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington recently said at spring training that Boston has no plans to try Swihart, the organization’s top prospect, at any position other than catcher. But the 22-year-old isn’t opposed to moving out from behind the dish if the Red Sox approach him about such a transition.

“I’ll play wherever I need to play,” Swihart told NESN.com on Monday. “I feel comfortable at other positions. Obviously, I’d need work if I was to do that, but I’ll do whatever I need to do to get to the big leagues.”

Swihart has been groomed as a catcher since the Red Sox selected him 26th overall in 2011. It’s unlikely the club will change its course anytime soon, especially given the success Swihart has had both offensively and defensively at the position, but the Red Sox will need to figure out how to properly assimilate the former first-round pick. Swihart is on the cusp of being major league-ready, yet he’s currently blocked by 24-year-old backstop Christian Vazquez and veteran Ryan Hanigan.

“Not right now,” Cherington recently said with regard to a potential position change. “He’s a great athlete and he’s played other positions in the past, and I’m sure he’s capable of doing it. But right now, he’s a catcher at a really important point in his development as a catcher. We want to focus on that position.”

Swihart’s athleticism is part of what makes him the Red Sox’s No. 1 overall prospect and the top catching prospect in Major League Baseball. He bounced around positions in high school, but the Red Sox felt that catching was a good fit, given Swihart’s skill set. It’s all worked out well so far.

“That’s one thing I want to do,” Swihart said. “I want to keep my athletic ability, and I go into every offseason thinking, ‘Hey, I’ve got to stay athletic, stay athletic.’ So I do take a lot of pride in staying athletic.”

Swihart, a switch-hitting catcher who’s also learning several new pitchers, certainly has a full plate this spring. It’s no surprise that Boston isn’t looking to overwhelm him with thoughts of trying other positions. But while more probably is asked of Swihart than any other player at camp, there’s no evidence to suggest the Red Sox’s top farmhand is overwhelmed. He has looked calm, cool and collected.

“The guys take care of me, the coaching staff,” Swihart said. “They do a good job of making sure I get my reps in offensively as well as (defensively) — not just catching but getting all of my reps in. They take a great deal (of time) in making sure everyone’s ready to play.”

The Boston Red Sox open the 2015 season with three games against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park. That means the Red Sox won’t have a designated hitter, and Ortiz will be forced to play the field earlier than usual.

“We’ve got to go and play in the National League at the beginning of the season, and we’re kind of used to doing it in the middle of the season, where it’s not that big of a deal,” Ortiz said Monday at JetBlue Park. “But at the beginning, when you just break camp and you have your team by position and all of a sudden you’ve got to switch things up just because of the fact that you’ve got to go play in the National League and stuff, you’ve got to prepare for that.”

Preparation already is underway. Ortiz, arguably the greatest designated hitter in Major League Baseball history, took ground balls at first base Monday to prepare for Boston’s season-opening interleague series. The slugger will see time at first base in games sporadically throughout spring training, especially toward the end of camp, according to manager John Farrell.

It isn’t like Ortiz is a total stranger to playing first base. He has 268 games of regular-season experience at the position, and he’s held his own while playing first base in three World Series. This season is unique in that Boston typically doesn’t begin the season at a National League ballpark, but Big Papi doesn’t seem too fazed by the unconventional opening week.

“It’s something I’m not really thinking about right now. All I’m worried about right now is just working on my timing, hitting,” Ortiz said. “Mike (Napoli) is our first baseman. We all know that he gets ready to play first base. … The basic thing that I do when I play first base, I’m already doing. You see me out there right now some days just doing the drills and stuff. That’s something that we don’t need to worry about.”

According to Farrell, the Red Sox have an agreement with National League teams that they be allowed to use a designated hitter during road games in spring training. Farrell said the club might opt out of the agreement toward the tail end of spring training to give its pitchers some at-bats before opening up in Philly.

As for Ortiz and his first baseman’s mitt? The 39-year-old isn’t sweating this year’s unique situation.

“It’s not a big deal,” he said.

It’s unclear at this point how many games Ortiz will play first base in Philadelphia.

Henry Owens threw his first live batting practice of spring training. The left-hander faced Ryan Hanigan and Humberto Quintero in a session that only added to Farrell’s positive impressions of the pitcher.

“Strikes. You see swing and miss to his changeup when hitters even know it’s coming,” Farrell said. “The impressions have all been positive, but you temper it with, let’s get into games and see it play out there.”

*The video above was shot from right next to both Farrell and Cherington. So yes, it’s essentially the vantage point they had for Monday’s live BP.

Owens is one of several pitchers vying for the role of Boston’s “sixth starter.” The 22-year-old is expected to begin the season at Triple-A Pawtucket, but he’s on the cusp of earning his first major league call-up. A solid spring could persuade Boston to view him as the “next man up” should something unforeseen happen to the Red Sox’s rotation early in the season.

Owens enters 2015 on the heels of another impressive minor league campaign. He went 14-4 with a 2.60 ERA in 20 starts with Double-A Portland before finishing the season with Pawtucket. Owens went 3-1 with a 4.03 ERA in six starts during his first taste of Triple-A.

It’s difficult to project Owens’ ceiling — some suggest he has middle-of-the-rotation upside — because his repertoire is so unique. The lanky lefty doesn’t blow hitters away, yet his command and his secondary stuff give him excellent strikeout capability.

“A lot of deception in his delivery, so whatever the velocity is, it plays up because of the reaction time for a given hitter,” Farrell said. “There’s three pitches he throws for strikes. He doesn’t pitch to the edge of the plate. He’s confident in his abilities.”

Owens is considered the Red Sox’s No. 2 prospect behind catcher Blake Swihart, who has worked extensively with the pitcher since the two entered the organization 10 picks apart in the 2011 draft. Swihart (selected 26th overall) can’t help but be impressed by the maturity shown by Owens (selected 36th overall) whenever he toes the rubber. The talented southpaw simply pitches to his strengths.

“He’s so controlled that he knows his limits,” Swihart told NESN.com on Monday. “He’s best when he’s throwing 91, 92 and hitting his spots, and then throwing his changeup off of that. He’s not scared to throw any pitch, so he goes out there with the confidence that every pitch is his best pitch.”

Baseball America annually releases a “Best Tools” list, which ranks the top minor leaguers in several categories based on physical attributes. Double-A managers in 2014 voted Owens as having the “Best Changeup” and the “Best Breaking Pitch.” Owens also was pegged the Eastern League’s “Best Pitching Prospect.”

Owens’ arsenal has been as effective as it is unique, and the future certainly looks bright for the 6-foot-6 former first-round pick. One live BP session hardly tells the story, but Owens’ changeup can be downright filthy, regardless of when it’s thrown.

“It’s great. The numbers don’t lie,” Swihart said. “He goes out there and gets the job done. That’s his go-to pitch. He throws that more than his curveball obviously, but he keeps hitters off-balance. If a pitcher has a (good) changeup, that’s a good weapon.”

Owens has the potential to be a good weapon for the Red Sox, perhaps sooner rather than later. Monday offered yet another reason for optimism.

Ortiz and several other Boston Red Sox players participated in conditioning drills at the end of Monday’s workout at JetBlue Park. The 39-year-old flashed some pretty decent footwork while training alongside younger, more dynamic players like Mookie Betts and Rusney Castillo.

The Red Sox wrapped things up with the “Ickey Shuffle” ladder drill. The drill, named after Ickey Woods’ famous touchdown celebration, tests a player’s quickness and agility.

Quintin Berry (gray shirt) stole the show with his incredible speed. The outfielder is unlikely to crack the Red Sox’s Opening Day roster, but manager John Farrell noted last week that Berry has a knack for stealing bases, which could come in handy at some point for a team looking to contend.

Here is a glimpse of Pablo Sandoval and Dustin Pedroia going through some conditioning drills over the weekend. I received several tweets complimenting Panda’s footwork in response to this video.

The Red Sox open their 2015 schedule with three games against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park, meaning pitchers will be forced to bat right out of the chute. The Sox should be better-equipped to handle the situation after Monday’s workout, as several hurlers practiced bunting on one of the back fields at JetBlue Park.

Clay Buchholz, Rick Porcello and Wade Miley were among those who dropped down some bunts. Red Sox bench coach Torey Lovullo spearheaded the workout and instructed the pitchers on where to direct their bunts.

Miley, who was acquired from the Arizona Diamondbacks over the offseason, has spent his entire career in the National League, so he certainly has a leg up. Lovullo jokingly pointed that out during the drill.

Boston Red Sox pitchers tossed aside any fear they might have had going into Monday’s workout at JetBlue Park. Several of the team’s hurlers participated in a “Rag Ball” drill, which is designed to prepare them for the sizzling comebackers they’ll inevitably face on the mound at points in their careers.

Sure, fielding comebackers is a small portion of a pitcher’s spring training preparation. But “Rag Ball” is a fun drill to watch, if nothing else, and the players typically let loose during it. Jon Lester and John Lackey, for example, used to place friendly wagers on who could better field his position.

Clay Buchholz and Rick Porcello were among those who participated in “Rag Ball” on Monday. Everyone walked away from the drill, which is performed using a ball softer than a baseball, unscathed.

The Red Sox began their day with a domestic violence prevention seminar sanctioned by Major League Baseball. They then continued their preparation for the 2015 season with several drills geared toward improving all aspects of the game.

Let’s run down some notes.

— The domestic violence seminar wasn’t the only significant meeting Saturday. MLB officials briefed Red Sox manager John Farrell and his coaching staff on how the league plans to implement its new change of pace rules this season.

“I know it’s still early, but he looked really good today,” Napoli said. “I’ve faced him before during the year. I know what the stuff’s like. He’s just got good arm action, ball comes out of his hand well. He’s good. The ball moves all over the place. He’s just ahead of everyone else right now.”

— Daniel Nava said over the offseason he was considering abandoning switch-hitting. The 32-year-old now is putting that plan into action.

Nava, who has been a switch-hitter his entire career, is experimenting with batting solely from the left side in camp, even against left-handed pitchers. It’s a move centered mostly on his drastic splits, though the Red Sox’s right-handed-heavy outfield certainly is a factor, too.

Nava said his comfort with batting left-on-left is growing by the day.

“Now I’m able to tinker with stuff and see what works, what doesn’t,” Nava said. “Do I want an open stance, do I want a closed stance? It’s personal preference. But that’s the great thing about spring training. You get to figure that stuff out.”

— Edward Mujica ended 2014 on a positive note, but there was a point last season when the reliever really struggled. His woes appear to have been injury related.

Mujica told WEEI.com’s Rob Bradford on Friday that he dealt with a neck issue in 2014 that wasn’t fully resolved until about midway through the season. It clearly hindered his performance.

“My neck was bothering me when I got here, I got treatment and in spring training I felt good because of the weather,” Mujica told Bradford. “But then I felt sore in the neck because of the cold weather.

“I was also adjusting to the American League, all the teams have pretty good hitters 1 through 9. I just kept working every single day, watching videos, got that (physical) adjustment and got going in the second half.

— Hanley Ramirez, Pedroia, Sandoval and others went through some conditioning drills at the conclusion of Saturday’s workout.

Nava has been a switch-hitter for most of his baseball life, yet the 32-year-old outfielder is considering abandoning the practice. Since Nava is a far better hitter from the left side, he’s going to experiment in camp with batting solely left-handed, even against left-handed pitchers.

“I struggled from the right side last year, and being that I wasn’t getting consistent at-bats, it’s worth a shot because maybe it’ll allow me to get some more at-bats,” Nava said Saturday at JetBlue Park.

The drastic splits weren’t a new development, either. Nava is a .293 hitter with an .813 OPS in 1,112 career plate appearances batting left-handed versus righties. He’s a .209 hitter with a .585 OPS in 337 career plate appearances batting right-handed against lefties.

“This conversation and talks began late last season with him,” Red Sox manager John Farrell said of Nava potentially doing away with switch-hitting. “Just feeling he’s a more productive hitter from the left side and focus on that one side of the plate. I think we’ll see some at-bats right-handed in camp, but there’s going to be some early opportunities against left-handers in which he’ll hit left-handed.”

Nothing is definitive. Nava could go through spring training and ultimately decide that batting exclusively left-handed just isn’t for him. Things are trending toward an offensive shift, though, as the veteran said he’s starting to feel more comfortable with batting left-on-left. It’s now about tinkering with various stances and figuring out what works best.

“My swing is still the same. It’s more or less the setups so that I can see the ball better,” Nava said. “From the right side, you’ve got both of your eyes. But from the left, from what I’ve seen, it’s just a little more challenging. If you’re facing like an Andrew Miller, he’s throwing from the dugout, (then) I guess I’d be Tony Batista (who is known for his unique stance).

“That’s more or less (what I’m focused on). The swing is still the same, and my approach is still the same, as well. So hopefully with the approach, it’ll give me a little bit easier of a transition.”

In order to further ease the transition, Nava sought the advice of former major league first baseman J.T. Snow, who went through a similar change late in his career. Nava was put in touch with Snow through Red Sox bench coach Torey Lovullo, and he came away from the conversation with valuable information.

“Some of the things he did to help himself adjust, that’s what I took away,” Nava said. “He goes, ‘It’s not an easy thing to do. But I definitely did this, this, this, this and it helped me a lot.’ And since I’ve never done it, having a little bit of a game plan helps. Just to know all right, that worked for him, this might work for me.

“But it’s just throwing a bunch of darts at a dartboard and seeing which ones stick.”

It’s worth noting that four of the Red Sox’s other outfielders — Hanley Ramirez, Mookie Betts, Rusney Castillo and Allen Craig — are right-handed hitters. Shane Victorino is a switch-hitter, and plans to resume the practice in 2015, but is a better hitter from the right side.

So, when was the last time Nava tried to hit left-on-left?

“I think RBI Baseball 1989,” Nava joked. “I’ve actually always switch-hit my whole life, so it’s probably been (a while). In high school, I wasn’t very good. And college, I wasn’t that good, either, so I didn’t do it too much then.”

The good news for Nava is that he once went 1-for-2 during an Independent League tryout while batting right-handed against a right-handed pitcher. Perhaps this experiment will yield similar success.

Ortiz conducted a 1-on-1 interview with FOX Sports’ Ken Rosenthal this week in Fort Myers. The 39-year-old discussed several topics, including his Hall of Fame candidacy, which is a case complicated by his link to performance-enhancing drugs.

The United States government seized the samples and records of 104 players from baseball’s drug-testing companies in 2004 as part of the BALCO investigation. The New York Times reported in 2009 that Ortiz was on the list.

There’s no proof the nine-time All-Star ever tested positive for PEDs, but merely being linked to the subject has cast some doubt over whether voters will induct arguably the greatest designated hitter of all time.

“I don’t know if I’m going to be a Hall of Famer, to be honest,” Ortiz told Rosenthal. “That’s not up to me. I’ve just got to keep doing what I’ve got to do on the field. But in case that happens, I don’t think it’s going to be fair.”

Ortiz said neither the players’ union nor Major League Baseball ever told him he tested positive for a banned substance. He also said those who did test positive likely did so because of over-the-counter supplements purchased at GNC rather than steroids or some other PED.

“It’s different from some of the guys who were buying steroids and they proved they were buying steroids,” Ortiz said. “My case basically was like your case. You go to a Starbucks and buy a cup of coffee just like all your friends who work with you every day, right? That’s exactly the same thing we did here.

“We are athletes. We work every day. We try to get better. Some of us have made the mistakes of, yes, going and buying steroids. But a lot of us, we haven’t made that mistake. And the reality is, 10 years later, here I am, still producing, doing my thing, getting drug-tested 10-12 times a year and never failing a test. Why should I feel guilty about that?”

Ortiz faces a difficult situation, as there always are going to be skeptics questioning his impressive career accomplishments. He doesn’t seem too fazed by the drama, though. Ortiz’s focus remains on the field, where he figures to be a huge part of the Red Sox’s offense again in 2015.

The noise simply is noise.

“Nobody can come to me and tell me that I tested positive for steroids,” Ortiz told Rosenthal. “Nobody on this planet can come and say, ‘David Ortiz, yes, you tested positive for steroids.’

“If I ever get to be blocked from the Hall of Fame because of that — if I ever get to the situation where I can get there — I will consider that just an excuse.”

Napoli, who played alongside Hamilton while with the Texas Rangers in 2011 and 2012, has been paying attention to the news regarding his former teammate’s reported drug relapse and potential suspension. It’s all somewhat surprising to the Boston Red Sox slugger, as Hamilton appeared to be doing well.

“It’s unfortunate, man. It’s just tough,” Napoli told WEEI.com this week. “A lot of people deal with things in different ways. Obviously there’s something wrong where he keeps relapsing, but it’s sad. I feel for him and his family. I just wish him the best and hope that he gets better.”

Hamilton recently met with Major League Baseball regarding a relapse that occurred this year, sources confirmed to MLB.com on Friday. CBS Sports reported earlier this week that Hamilton’s relapse involved cocaine use.

The Los Angeles Angels (Hamilton’s current team) don’t expect to hear from the league anytime soon, according to MLB.com. But sources told FOX Sports earlier this week that Hamilton is likely to be suspended for least 25 games for violating the terms of a treatment program. Hamilton returned to MLB in 2006 after serving a suspension of more than two years that stemmed from drug use.

“Some people just have that personality, where they just feel like they need it,” Napoli told WEEI.com. “It’s hard. I feel for him. I hope he gets on the right path to get back to being a star baseball player, because when he’s right and healthy and on the right path, he’s another league above this as a talent. It’s sad.”

As Napoli noted, the Rangers celebrated with ginger ale after punching their ticket to the World Series in 2011 out of courtesy for Hamilton and his battle against drugs and alcohol.

Kelly, who was acquired last season from the St. Louis Cardinals, has arguably the best pure stuff of any Red Sox pitcher. The 26-year-old flashed his skills Saturday while facing Dustin Pedroia and Mike Napoli during live batting practice on one of the back fields at JetBlue Park.

“It’s a quick arm. He’s in good shape,” Red Sox manager John Farrell said of Kelly. “To see him throw the ball down and away to a right-hander as frequently as he did was really encouraging. And yet he’s still feeling his way through. Early in camp, he’s impressive with his stuff and some location of fastballs.”

Kelly showed promise in 2014. He went 4-2 with a 4.11 ERA in 10 starts with the Red Sox, often showcasing the electric arsenal that drew Boston to the right-hander at the non-waiver trade deadline.

There is room for improvement in 2015, though. While Kelly can touch the mid 90s with his fastball, he often becomes erratic. He’ll need to cut down on the free passes to take the next step.

“To be a little bit more refined with his command overall should keep him ahead in the count and maybe have some hitters hit in more defensive counts,” Farrell said. “There were times last year when a four-pitch walk would be mixed in there.

“As he evolves as a pitcher and knows the consistency required, that focus and concentration will add to that pitch count being a little bit more in line with the inning. And hopefully that extends him deeper into individual outings.”

Kelly figures to join Clay Buchholz, Rick Porcello, Wade Miley and Justin Masterson in a starting rotation that’s under a microscope due to the absence of an ace. Several Red Sox have expressed confidence in the bunch, and Kelly is as much a breakout candidate as anyone.

Napoli even noted that Kelly looks like he’s ahead of everyone else right now.

Masterson threw his first live batting practice of Boston Red Sox spring training on Saturday. The right-hander showed some encouraging signs, but the highlight of the session involved Sandoval going deep.

Sandoval has brought plenty of energy to camp. It’s been reflected in his BP sessions, during which he has flashed even more power than expected. Masterson witnessed it all firsthand Saturday.

Aside from Sandoval’s moon shot to right field, Masterson had a positive workout. It’s certainly something he can build on as he looks to turn the page on a disappointing 2014.

“I thought the second half of his BP session was more crisp,” Red Sox manager John Farrell said. “The sinker, the action to his pitches were on the plate more consistently. And just following a progression towards games here next week.”

Vazquez is in the midst of his first spring training as starting catcher of the Boston Red Sox, which obviously presents a different set of circumstances than years past. The 24-year-old backstop hasn’t changed much with regard to his preparation, though, as his goals remain lofty going into 2015.

“It’s great,” Vazquez told NESN.com on Friday of being dubbed the Red Sox’s Opening Day catcher. “(But) I’m going to be the same guy as last year, working hard every day to do my best.”

Vazquez’s “best” perhaps has yet to come. After all, he only has 55 games of major league experience since earning his first call-up last July. But there’s no doubt that Vazquez is ahead of the curve as far as development goes. He already is a standout defensive catcher whose leadership qualities have shined from the moment he joined the Red Sox.

“Being a leader on the field is very important to us,” Vazquez said. “To build that trust with the pitchers and your teammates, it’s very important to us. It’s like (former Red Sox catcher Jason) Varitek — a leader and a good teammate.”

Vazquez’s offseason is unlike that of most players. He is coming off another stint of winter ball in Puerto Rico, and his offseason studying involves picking the brains of the Molina brothers — Jose, in particular — who are renowned across baseball for their defensive aptitude and baseball IQ. Pitcher Joe Kelly, who played with six-time All-Star Yadier Molina in St. Louis and now Vazquez in Boston, even calls Vazquez “Mini Yadi.” It’s a comparison Vazquez takes pride in given how high he has set his personal bar.

“I want to learn the most I can with them,” Vazquez said of working with the Molinas. “I want to be a Gold Glove catcher. That’s my goal. Most of all, I’m listening to them, I’m learning.

“I want to be like Pudge (Ivan Rodriguez). I want to win a lot of Gold Gloves and be a good catcher in the future.”

Vazquez certainly has Gold Glove potential, as he’s already considered by many to be a “shutdown catcher.” His ability to control the running game is elite, and, according to teammate David Ortiz, opponents are wasting little time in pointing out just how good Vazquez is behind the plate.

“Of course. I’m here for that,” Vazquez said of embracing the “shutdown catcher” label. “Defense, throwing runners out, that helps my team out and the ERA of my pitchers.”

While there’s a lot to like about Vazquez’s defensive game, including his rocket arm, his high intelligence and his uncanny instincts, the former ninth-round pick said Friday he views his footwork as his biggest asset. Either way, Vazquez seemingly realizes his bread is buttered by his work behind the dish and his knack for connecting with his pitching staff.

“For me, my priority is defense right now, getting ready every day,” Vazquez said. “My first priority is the pitcher, and defense comes (first). Right now, I’m focused on defense and calling good games.

“We’ve got guys to hit — Hanley (Ramirez) and David (Ortiz) and everybody. They’re going to bring everybody. My offense is going to come with the games I’m learning (and) watching them hit. I’m going to learn more than (just) hitting.”

Vazquez’s offense ultimately could dictate whether Vazquez is simply a great defensive catcher or an All-Star-caliber backstop, like Yadier Molina. It’s why Vazquez isn’t overlooking any aspect of the game in trying to become an impact major leaguer.

“I want to hit, too. I want to be good offensively, too, because I want money, you know?” Vazquez said with a smile. “I’m not worried about my offense because I know I can hit, but that comes with games and learning and listening, all that stuff.”

Vazquez wants trust, Gold Gloves and money. How about a couple of World Series rings?

While Day 3 had the potential to be a grind given the buzz that surrounded the first two days of camp, the Red Sox didn’t let off the gas Friday. Boston again went full-throttle in its preparation for the 2015 season.

It was a chilly day at JetBlue Park — relatively speaking, of course — but Mother Nature again cooperated despite the overcast skies. Several Red Sox players capped their day with a charity golf tournament following the morning workout.

Let’s run down some notes from Friday.

— The Red Sox’s starting rotation is expected to consist of Clay Buchholz, Rick Porcello, Wade Miley, Joe Kelly and Justin Masterson. But who will pitch Opening Day and how will the rotation order look?

Red Sox manager John Farrell wouldn’t reveal any specifics, but he offered some clarity as to how a skipper goes about setting up his rotation to begin the season.

“Merit is one (factor). You factor in what has taken place either the year or years before. That’s one factor,” Farrell said. “You’re also looking at, when you start to slot guys in, if there are pitchers that have higher innings projections, you try to stagger them so you’re not potentially overtaxing a bullpen on consecutive days.

“And then you’re trying to break things up, so if you’re in a three-game series, you’re giving different looks based on the style of that starter.”

Buchholz, Porcello and Miley all are scheduled to pitch in the Red Sox’s exhibition doubleheader against Boston College and Northeastern on Tuesday, further masking Boston’s projected rotation.

“Camouflage,” Farrell joked. “It’s a big thing.”

— Baserunning was a major point of emphasis Friday. Red Sox third base coach/infield instructor Brian Butterfield spearheaded drills geared toward improving the club’s prowess on the base paths in 2015.

Farrell identified Mookie Betts, Brock Holt and Victorino as three leadoff candidates earlier in camp. It doesn’t sound like much has changed, though he also threw Rusney Castillo’s name into the mix.

“It’s going to be dependent upon the opposing pitcher on a given day,” Farrell said. “Whether or not Rusney is a guy that evolves into that in time, I’d say there are other guys ahead of him right now. Still, it’s not going to be solely dependent upon speed. On-base clearly is the primary driver there.”

— Quintin Berry’s decision to sign with the Red Sox was somewhat surprising given the team’s outfield depth. But Farrell views Berry, who won a ring with Boston in 2013, as a potentially useful player at the major league level.

“He’s got a definite skill. And that is the ability to steal a base,” Farrell said. “Even though he came over to us late in 2013, he was on the postseason roster throughout because of that ability. In talking with Quintin, a team that has the potential to contend is where he’s a best fit for that very reason.”

Filed under: Boston Red Sox, NESN Video, Red Sox Spring Training, Ricky Doyle, Top Stories]]>http://nesn.com/2015/02/red-sox-notes-john-farrell-sheds-light-on-starting-rotation-decision/feed/00John FarrellnesnrdoyleBrock Holt No Longer A Secret, But Still A Weapon For 2015 Red Soxhttp://nesn.com/2015/02/brock-holt-no-longer-a-secret-but-still-a-weapon-for-2015-red-sox/
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FORT MYERS, Fla. — Brock Holt might just be another face in the crowd when it comes to going out in public. Between the foul lines is a different story.

Holt emerged as a valuable contributor for the Boston Red Sox last season despite the club’s overall struggles. The effort has led to little recognition off the field, but it’s unreasonable to think he’ll sneak up on teams in 2015 like he did in 2014.

“I’m a pretty low-key guy, so I don’t really go out and do a whole lot of stuff,” Holt said earlier this week at JetBlue Park. “But even if I did, I could probably walk around in my uniform and people wouldn’t really know who I was. It’s not a bad thing.”

Sure, Holt — a self-proclaimed “average-looking white guy” — doesn’t have a distinct aura about him. He’s generously listed at 5-foot-10 and 185 pounds, and he carries himself with such humility that it’s nearly impossible to peg him as a professional athlete unless you’re familiar with the Red Sox.

But there’s something very special about what Holt does on the field. He’s a throwback type of player with an underdog edge — kind of like teammate Dustin Pedroia — and he brings the same level of passion each day regardless of the situation. And Holt sure faced many situations last season, as the 26-year-old played every position on the diamond except for pitcher and catcher.

“I was just excited, no matter where I was at, I was just excited to play,” said Holt, who started the 2014 season at Triple-A Pawtucket before earning a major league call-up. “I love playing baseball, whatever position that might be. As long as I’m in the lineup, it doesn’t really matter.”

Holt, realizing the uncertainty that surrounds his role with the Red Sox, brought several gloves to spring training. He owns one for each infield position and one for outfield use. All might come into play again in 2015.

“To give you a certain number of games per week, I don’t know that we can go there yet. But his value increased over the course of last year because of the versatility,” Red Sox manager John Farrell said this week of Holt’s role moving forward. “There’s no hesitancy to put him in any one of those five or six positions. He’s a guy that will definitely be in the mix, in the rotation.

“I guess the best way to categorize it is you see a guy who is versatile, not just a utility guy. Is he quite a regular, everyday player? Maybe not on this roster right now. But it’s more than the guy that’s got to pick up someone on a day game after a night game.”

Holt played All-Star caliber baseball at his peak last season. He finished the year batting .281 with a .331 on-base percentage and 12 stolen bases in 106 games. His value extends well beyond the box score, though. Holt’s ability to bounce around allows the Red Sox to keep players fresh — thus potentially at their optimum performance levels — and his energy, while not quantifiable, absolutely is contagious.

“We’ve got a lot of good players in this locker room. It’s a joy to be part of it,” Holt said. “Not too many people can say they played for the Boston Red Sox, so it’s one of the best jobs in the world and we’re all lucky to be here.”

If Holt learned anything over the last year, it’s that one should expect the unexpected. While he’ll serve in a super utility role to begin the season, there’s no telling what will happen over the course of a 162-game grind. Playing time and opportunities could present themselves out of nowhere.

“I’m going to be ready to play,” Holt said. “If I’m in there, great. If not, I’ll be ready to come in later in the game and ready to go the next day.”

Maybe someone will notice Holt off the field after this season. If not, oh well. He sure has everyone’s attention the minute the first pitch is thrown.

Butterfield, the Boston Red Sox’s energetic third base coach/infield instructor, spearheaded a series of baserunning drills Friday at JetBlue Park. The Red Sox, one of the worst baserunning teams in Major League Baseball last season, are looking to improve on the base paths in 2015, as it could be a differentiator in the American League East.

“He brings the same approach to that aspect of our team, and that’s attention to detail, looking for opportunities to take advantage of a situation,” Red Sox manager John Farrell said Friday of Butterfield’s tutelage. “Today’s drill is one to create an awareness of many different situations and scenarios. It’s a matter of getting some of the cobwebs off, after a long offseason, to some of the finer details of the game.”

Poor baserunning proved to be one of the biggest and most underrated reasons for Boston’s demise in 2014. The Red Sox prided themselves on being relentless on the bases in 2013 en route to a World Series title, yet the club failed to evoke the same fear in opponents last season, much to its detriment.

The Red Sox racked up the fourth-most stolen bases in baseball in 2013 (123) and did so with the best success rate (87 percent) of any major league club. They finished 25th in stolen bases (63) and 17th in success rate (72 percent) last season, in large because they didn’t have the same weapons at their disposal.

“I think if you look back to the first half of last year, it was somewhat a reflection of the personnel,” Farrell said. “Jacoby (Ellsbury) being absent from here, who was as efficient and successful as anyone. (Shane Victorino) being injured.

“When Mookie (Betts) came to us and Brock (Holt) was in the lineup a little bit more, we saw our efficiency and success rate spike up. We would expect that to carry over with Mookie, with Brock, with Vic being back active. Hanley in his own right, the body type might not suggest a base stealer, but you look at a guy who’s got 13 to 17 (stolen base potential). It’s an overall part of our approach towards taking advantage of situations and trying to create as much of a dynamic offense as possible.”

Losing Ellsbury is going to hurt any ballclub, particularly on the bases. He led the AL in stolen bases three times as a member of the Red Sox, even compiling a league-best 52 steals in 2013. Boston’s 2014 baserunning woes were about more than not stealing bases, though. The Sox simply ran into too many outs — outs they didn’t have to give based on the team’s overall offensive aptitude.

“Our goal is always to be 80 percent successful (on stolen bases),” Farrell said. “And I think at that point you’re going to be in the positive. Once you drop below that, then we’ve got to be a little bit more selective.”

FanGraphs uses an all-encompassing baserunning statistic (BsR) to that turns stolen bases, caught stealings and other base running plays (taking extra bases, being thrown out on the bases, etc.) into runs above and below average. The Red Sox posted a 11.3 mark (fifth in the majors) in 2013. They posted a -7.5 BsR (28th) in 2014.

Obviously, the Red Sox need to drastically improve on last season’s performance, or else the offense, while potent, will be forced to cover up an ugly wart. Fortunately for the Red Sox, they seem better-equipped to replicate their 2013 effort this season, as Betts, Holt, Victorino, Ramirez, Dustin Pedroia and Rusney Castillo all are healthy and capable of making sizable impacts on the bases, even if it isn’t necessarily reflected in high stolen-base outputs.

Baserunning often is overlooked. Just not inside the walls of the Red Sox’s clubhouse.

On Friday, they were grouped together during Boston Red Sox batting practice at JetBlue Park.

Bradley and Craig were joined by Daniel Nava on one of the back fields Friday morning. There wasn’t much buzz surrounding the session, as David Ortiz and Co. were crushing balls on the main field. It still was an important aspect of Friday’s full-squad workout, though, as Bradley and Craig both have the potential to bring something to the table this season if they can iron things out offensively.

Bradley’s swing looked long at times last season. The defensively gifted outfielder enters 2015 with 152 strikeouts in 530 career major league plate appearances. If Bradley can refine his approach, specifically with regard to leveling out his swing, perhaps his offense will catch up with his glove work to make him a viable everyday outfielder at the big league level.

Ortiz and Ramirez took batting practice together alongside Pablo Sandoval, Shane Victorino and Xander Bogaerts on Field 3 at JetBlue Park. The sluggers crushed several long balls during the session, which drew a nice ovation from the crowd assembled at the Boston Red Sox spring training complex.

Ortiz and Ramirez ended BP with back-to-back homers — something Red Sox fans hope to see this season — to the crowd’s delight. It’s the second time this week Ramirez ended BP with a blast.

Watch the final minute of Friday’s BP session below. Listen closely for the sound of the ball drilling the shed located beyond the right field fence on Ortiz’s home runs.